NC legislature passes bill making most municipal elections in Forsyth County partisan

The North Carolina General Assembly approved legislation Wednesday that would make most municipal elections in Forsyth County partisan.

The state house passed House Bill 1064 in a 73 to 41 vote. The legislation affects several towns including Clemmons, Rural Hall, Tobaccoville and Kernersville.

It also shifts Bethania elections to odd-numbered years.

Clemmons Mayor Mike Rogers says the move is a major change to the village's charter and that nonpartisan elections allowed for unaffiliated voters to run in local races.

"We've done this for 38 years and we've had a very diverse participation from our general population," Rogers says.

He also says he's concerned that Clemmons residents and council didn't have an opportunity to give input on the bill.

State Sen. Joyce Krawiec, a Republican representing Forsyth County, has said she believes the measure could increase voter turnout.

The bill is considered local because it affects fewer than 15 counties. As such, it is not subject to a veto by the governor and becomes law immediately.

The changes will go into effect in 2025.